CNG vs. Electric Rickshaw: Which is More Profitable in Mumbai (2025)?
For a rickshaw driver in the bustling Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), every single rupee counts. Your vehicle isn’t just a way to travel; it’s your business, your livelihood. The biggest decision you’ll make is choosing the right type of rickshaw. With rising fuel prices and new technology, the choice is clear: CNG or Electric?
Which one will put more money in your pocket at the end of the day?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from the initial price to daily running costs—to help you decide which is the most profitable choice for driving in areas like Navi Mumbai, Thane, and beyond.
Round 1: The Upfront Cost
The first hurdle is the purchase price. How much will it cost to get the vehicle on the road?
CNG Auto Rickshaw Price:
CNG rickshaws have been the standard for years. They are widely available, and their technology is well-established. Generally, the upfront cost of a new CNG rickshaw is lower than its electric counterpart. This makes it a very attractive option if you have a limited initial budget.
Electric Rickshaw (E-Rickshaw) Price
Electric rickshaws are newer and often come with a higher initial price tag. However, don’t let that stop you! The government offers significant FAME-II subsidies and state-level incentives on electric vehicles to make them more affordable. The final price you pay after these subsidies can be much more competitive.
Round 1: The Upfront Cost
For a rickshaw driver in the bustling Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), every single rupee counts. Your vehicle isn’t just a way to travel; it’s your business, your livelihood. The biggest decision you’ll make is choosing the right type of rickshaw. With rising fuel prices and new technology, the choice is clear: CNG or Electric?
Which one will put more money in your pocket at the end of the day?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from the initial price to daily running costs—to help you decide which is the most profitable choice for driving in areas like Navi Mumbai, Thane, and beyond.
Winner: CNG (for lower initial cost before subsidies). Electric (can be competitive after subsidies).
Round 2: Daily Running Costs (Fuel vs. Charging)
This is where the real difference lies. This is your daily expense.
CNG Cost:
A CNG rickshaw typically gives a mileage of around 25-30 km per kg. As of late 2025 in the Mumbai region, with the price of CNG per kg, your running cost per kilometer is significant and can fluctuate with market prices.
Electric Charging Cost:
This is where the E-Rickshaw is a clear winner. The cost to fully charge an electric rickshaw is incredibly low. You can charge it overnight at home using a standard plug point. The per-kilometer running cost of an E-Rickshaw can be less than ₹1, which is a massive saving compared to CNG.
Winner: Electric Rickshaw (by a large margin).